The Facts: The Bucs will not discuss extending Freeman's contract in the off-season. That means his rookie deal will expire after 2013. If he plays great, the team will use its franchise tag on Freeman and try to sign him to a long-term deal. The exclusive-rights franchise tender for a quarterback would likely be more than $17 million for one year.
Diehards Line:According to Times staffer Rick Stroud, in many ways, it's the Bucs' only play. They don't want a situation like the Jets have with QB Mark Sanchez; they'd like to cut ties but have guaranteed him $8.25 million next season. Remember: HC Greg Schiano inherited Freeman. He likes a lot of things about Freeman's game -- he did set franchise records for passing yards and touchdowns -- but plans to add a quarterback, either in the draft or free agency, to compete with Freeman next season. And if Freeman doesn't lead the Bucs to the playoffs in 2013, his fifth season? According to Stroud, Schiano might start over with a new signal caller that might not win fast enough to save his job. ... Whatever the case, Schiano opened the door to all this speculation by going public with the need to bring in competition for Freeman. The team's failure to extend Freeman this offense will keep that door wide open all season.